Did Benny Blanco and Jimmy Fallon make an ill-advised choice by cutting a ‘bora’ (purple) cake during the launch of a cookbook? Fans seem to think so.
Despite Blanco’s evident admiration for the seven-member K-pop band, particularly after their collaboration on his latest single, fans were unsettled watching him film a video of cutting a cake featuring the BTS logo. Jimmy Fallon, renowned for his numerous interviews with BTS members, joined Blanco in the video.
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Fallon and Blanco Slice BTS Cake
During the launch of his cookbook, “Selena Gomez’s Love Benny,” Benny Blanco baked several cakes, including a BTS-themed purple one. Making an appearance on The Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon, the duo filmed themselves cutting and enjoying the cake in a humorous manner, eliciting laughter from viewers. They even mentioned the group’s official handle. However, some fans, particularly ARMYs, found the gesture unnecessary as BTS had no direct involvement in the occasion.
Backlash Ensues Over Benny Blanco’s BTS Cake Cutting
Following Benny Blanco’s decision to feature BTS in a cake-cutting video, some fans expressed concerns that the inclusion of BTS felt like an attempt to capitalize on the group’s popularity. While some found the connection to BTS clever, others jokingly labeled it a case of “Right Place Wrong Person,” referencing RM’s recent album. Some fans even criticized Blanco and Jimmy Fallon as “clout chasers.”
Comparisons were drawn to singer UMI’s situation, who faced criticism for interacting with ARMY on social media after collaborating with BTS’s V on their latest single, “Wherever u r.” Fans pointed out the disparity in treatment, accusing “Benny and Jimmy” of receiving a “free pass” while UMI faced harassment.
K-pop fans highlighted past instances of Western artists and interviewers exhibiting disrespectful behavior towards K-pop idols, prompting criticism of Blanco and Fallon’s actions. One fan questioned the double standard, asking if it was acceptable for non-POC artists to leverage BTS for clout. Another fan criticized the pattern of white artists making BTS collaborations a central part of their identity to attract ARMYs.
Criticism extended to Jimmy Fallon’s alleged support for Zionism, particularly concerning the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict. BTS supporters, particularly those in solidarity with Palestine, urged BTS’s management to distance themselves from Zionism. Frustration was expressed over Fallon’s perceived support for Israel, with fans calling for attention to his stance on the matter.
BTS’ RM Offers Visual Teaser for Upcoming Album
Ahead of the release of his second solo album, “Right Place, Wrong Person,” BTS member RM treated fans to a sneak peek with a series of concept photos shared on Thursday, May 2. The images, captured with a nostalgic aesthetic reminiscent of disposable camera shots, showcase RM in various everyday locations in Tokyo. From a parking lot to a playground, RM is depicted in simple settings, occasionally flashing a smile as he gazes into the camera.
In one snapshot, RM reclines in a desk chair amidst a colorful, chaotic office space, while another sees him standing in the ocean at night, holding his shoes as the water soaks the bottoms of his jeans.
According to a press release, the artwork aims to portray RM, also known as Kim Namjoon, as an “ordinary individual” enjoying moments of freedom in relatable settings, diverging from his glamorous stage persona. This concept aligns with the themes explored in “Right Place, Wrong Person,” which delves into RM’s feelings of alienation and not fitting in, as highlighted in the album’s announcement on Weverse last month.
The new photos, taken by Takahiro Mizushima, follow RM’s earlier release of concept images by Wing Shya. Fans can anticipate a third installment of teaser pictures for “Right Place, Wrong Person” on May 17.
